Pathological Plasticity in Fragile X Syndrome

Pathological Plasticity in Fragile X Syndrome

Deficits in neuronal plasticity are common hallmarks of many neurodevelopmental disorders. In the case of fragile-X syndrome (FXS), disruption in the function of a single gene, FMR1, results in a variety of neurological consequences directly related to problems with the development, maintenance, and capacity of plastic neuronal networks. In this paper, we discuss current research illustrating t...

Pathological Plasticity and Glutamate Transport in Fragile-X Tremor and Ataxia Syndrome

Fragile-X Tremor and Ataxia Syndrome (FXTAS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by action tremor, gait difficulties, and dementia. It is caused by a 55-200 length CGG trinucleotide repeat expansion in the 5’ untranslated region of the FMR1 gene. If the repeat over 200 CGG’s, FMRP is not produced, resulting in the most common inherited form of autism; Fragile X Syndrome. R...

Astrocytes and Developmental Plasticity in Fragile X

A growing body of research indicates a pivotal role for astrocytes at the developing synapse. In particular, astrocytes are dynamically involved in governing synapse structure, function, and plasticity. In the postnatal brain, their appearance at synapses coincides with periods of developmental plasticity when neural circuits are refined and established. Alterations in the partnership between a...

The fragile X syndrome.

We have begun to appreciate that the extent of this disorder is much wider than merely mental retardation. It is also a common cause of learning and emotional problems in mildly affected female carriers with normal IQs. These children present an enormous challenge to all child-care providers, be they in medicine, education, or in various therapy disciplines. Early identification is essential, a...

Fragile X syndrome.